Maryland septics legislation prompts criticism, confusion

ANNAPOLIS — Groups representing farmers and counties say they still have concerns about a reworked bill to control septic systems in Maryland.

Officials with groups representing the two key stakeholders have been looking over the complex measure since it was introduced this week as part of the governor’s legislative agenda.

Les Knapp Jr., associate director of the Maryland Association of Counties, says it is better than a bill introduced last year, but still poses concerns for the state’s counties. Knapp says the largest concern is the expansion of state authority to approve residential subdivisions.

Val Connelly, government relations director for the Maryland Farm Bureau, says farmers are concerned how it will affect land values and her group wants to make sure the bill receives enough study.